How to Choose the Right Cabinet – Material, IP Rating & Accessories
The choice of cabinet affects reliability, maintenance, and service life. Key factors are material, IP rating, and accessories. Here we compare cabinets in steel plate, stainless steel cabinets, aluminium boxes and plastic boxes – with focus on environmental requirements and applications.
Steel Plate
- IP Rating: IP55-IP65
- Advantages: Robust, cost-effective
- Limitation: Risk of corrosion
- Typical industries: Industry, building installations
Stainless Steel (AISI 304/316)
- IP Rating: IP54-IP69K
- Advantages: Hygienic, corrosion-resistant, very durable
- Limitation: Higher cost
- Typical industries: Food, pharmaceutical, offshore
Aluminium
- IP Rating: IP65
- Advantages: Lightweight, good EMC shielding
- Limitation: Lower mechanical strength
- Typical industries: Energy, transport
Plastic
- IP Rating: IP65-IP69K
- Advantages: Lightweight, insulating, low-cost
- Typical industries: Building, telecom
Comparison Table
| Material | IP class | Advantages | Limitations | Typical industries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steel Plate | IP55-IP65 | Robust, cost-effective | Risk of corrosion | Industry, building |
| Stainless Steel | IP65-IP69K | Hygienic, corrosion-resistant | Higher cost | Food, pharmaceutical, offshore |
| Aluminium | IP65 | Lightweight, good EMC shielding | Lower mechanical strength | Offshore, energi |
| Plastic | IP65-IP69K | Lightweight, insulating, low-cost | Limited durability | Building, telecom |
Standards
- EN 62208 – Empty boxes
- EN 60529 – IP rating classification
Industry Use Cases
- Steel plate: Machine builders prioritizing price
- Stainless steel: Food industry where cleaning is critical
- Aluminium: Offshore installations requiring low weight and EMC protection
- Plastic:Telecom and indoor installations
FAQ
Which material and IP rating are needed in the food industry?
Stainless steel (AISI 316) with at least IP66/IP69K.
Are plastic boxes approved for outdoor use?
Only in mild environments, otherwise steel plate or stainless steel is required.
Do you need help choosing the right cabinet?
Our experts will help you find the right cabinet for your application.
